Brompton C Line

100/100
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Brand
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Weight
26.9, 26, 25 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Brompton C Line. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

18 reasons to buy

  • Experts and owners hail the Brompton C Line as “very good value for money.”
  • The C Line series includes models with 2, 3, and 6-speed gearing (Urban, Utility, Explore).
  • The bike earns high praise for its “perfectly thought-out” three-part folding system, which takes about 20 to 30 seconds.
  • The folded size of just 25.3” x 23” x 10.6” makes storage and transport easy.
  • Brompton offers the C Line builds in three handlebar configurations: low, mid, or high.
  • The C Line Explore’s low gears contribute to its “excellent” climbing ability.
  • Experts say the Schwalbe tires’ puncture resistance is highly effective.
  • The tires offer good traction, bump absorption, and cornering, according to reviewers.
  • The dual-pivot caliper brakes are “powerful,” easy to modulate, and “responsive.”
  • Owners and reviewers applaud the Brompton's comfort, even on longer journeys.
  • Testers say the extended wheelbase and low center of gravity ensure a stable ride.
  • Reviewers praise the “sturdy” hand-brazed steel frame, highlighting the weld quality and paintwork.
  • The bike supports riders up to 242lb and inseam lengths between 26” and 35”.
  • Owners appreciate the diverse and “appealing” color options.
  • Brompton ships the C Line bikes mostly assembled.
  • The saddle can be used as a handle for carrying when folded. The bike also has small wheels for rolling it on longer walks.
  • The C Line comes with fenders, a front bag mount, an integrated pump, and a bell.
  • All Brompton frames have a seven-year warranty.

7 reasons not to buy

  • The Brompton C Line is relatively expensive.
  • Some experts find the rubber grips uncomfortable.
  • The internal hub shouldn’t be shifted under load.
  • Owners mention that the steering can feel a bit "twitchy."
  • Folding the bike results in cable rub on the frame due to external cable routing.
  • The Explore's internal gear hub can be noisy when shifting and pedaling.
  • The C Line builds don’t have kickstands.

Bottom line

The Brompton C Line is a foldable commuter bike offered in 2, 3, and 6-speed gearing options (Urban, Utility, Explore). Buyers can select from three handlebar options (low, mid, high) and various colors. Additionally, there are versions available with either Brompton or Brooks saddles. The bike is praised for its practicality, portability, and durability. Testers also commend the folding mechanism, climbing performance (Explore), and enjoyable riding experience within this category. Although the C Line comes with a relatively higher price and the steering may feel “twitchy” initially, experts and owners alike consider it “very good value.”

Expert Reviews

94/100 based on 3 rated expert reviews
90

Brompton C Line Explore

The ultimate folding commuter bike that offers handling, comfort, and gears to go much further.

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Brompton C Line Explore Review

The Brompton doesn’t shine only on short rides. I tested it on longer journeys, some of 10+ miles, and it remained comfortable.

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100

Brompton C Line Explore Review

… the build quality is exceptional, it folds easily and into an impressively small package, and the ride feel is excellent – smooth, nippy, and comfortable.

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Gladys the Narrowboat

Brompton Review – The First 100 Miles, June 2023

Overall, I have been very impressed with it, and so far, I am very happy with it!

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Bike Review: Brompton C Line Utility Folding Bike

Compact, lightweight bike [that] fits many GA aircraft.

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Gear Patrol

The Brompton C Line Explore Is the Perfect Bike for City-Dwelling Commuters

This odd-looking folding bike is actually the ideal ride for urban exploration.

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Radelbande

2022 Brompton C Line Explore – Iconic Folding Bicycle Made in London [German]

The Brompton really amazes me: it’s comfortable, it’s fast, it’s agile, it folds very small and can be taken anywhere…

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Brompton C Line – Classic Folding Bike Test [German]

… an investment for life. The durability of the frame material is enormous, the versatility due to 6-speed shifting and a variety of accessory options fits every conceivable purpose.

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Foldable Classic From England – With This Bike You Save Time in City Traffic [German]

Foldable, practical, good; the classic British folding bike proves itself as a supplement in everyday ways.

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User Ratings

98/100 based on 61 ratings
  • 5 star
    92%
  • 4 star
    7%
  • 3 star
    2%
  • 2 star
    0%
  • 1 star
    0%

Bike Comparison

Brompton C Line in comparison to averages

Forum Discussions

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